Wildlife discoveries

Safaris & National Parks in Sri Lanka

We list below some of the most famous national parks in Sri Lanka. The country currently has 26 national parks.

• Yala National Park: a wide variety of animals, but mostly known for its leopard population.

• Udawalawe National Park: the largest elephant population in the country.

• Wilpattu National Park: located in the north, it is the largest park in the country, with a considerable population of leopards. The animals are, however, difficult to see.

• Bundala and Kumana National Park: the best safaris dedicated to bird watching.

• Minneriya and Kaudulla National Park: renowned for the elephant gathering that takes place during the dry season, from April to September.

• Maduru Oya National Park: a park gathering a rich variety of endemic birds, elephants, buffaloes and jaguars.

• Kala Wewa Park:  Spared by tourists, Kalawewa Park, located in the Cultural Triangle offers an extraordinary experience

• Gal Oya National Park: located on the east side of the island, it is a very unique park, where you can experience a boat safari.

Elephants in Sri Lanka

You will see many wild elephants in the national parks of Udawalawe, Kaudulla or Minneriya. If you want a unique elephant experience, visit the Millennium Elephant Foundation. This place takes care of elephants and is located near Kandy. Nearby, there is also the center of Pinnawela, which takes its elephants for a bath in the river, but we do not recommend this center which cares little for the welfare of animals.

Bird watching in Sri Lanka

Bird watching is possible in all national parks and reserves in Sri Lanka. The Kumana and Bundala parks are the most famous with many migratory birds, but the Sinharaja rainforest is probably the best bird watching experience in Sri Lanka.

Marine Mammal Observation in Sri Lanka

Dolphins and whales are found in abundance in Kalpitiya, between December and April. During this period, you will be able to see blue whales in the waters off Mirissa. You will also meet these giant mammals in Trincomalee from March to August.

Primate centre in Sri Lanka

Crossing monkeys wandering or jumping around is something common in Sri Lanka, but this center located in Polonnaruwa will give you a different approach, thanks to the advice and explanations of experts.

Other animals in Sri Lanka

With more than 80 mammals listed, you cannot get bored in Sri Lanka. It's a perfect destination for families. If you are lucky, you will have the opportunity to see monkeys roaming, see giant squirrels, observe wild elephants or peacocks in parks. You might visit a Turtles hatchery in the south of the island where turtles are taken care of and eggs preserved. Of course, the aim of this centre is to take care of turtles, so we invite visitors to avoid touching and carrying turtles even if it is a common practice by tourists.